‘The Sabres are now about $930,000 under the cap, taking away Kotalik and Morrisonn but counting a $425,000 bonus owed Tyler Myers. They had been about $3.6 million over with the NHL’s top payroll. They are now third in cap payroll at about $63.3 million, behind Washington ($65.1 million) and Philadelphia ($64.1 million). The Capitals are the only team over the cap.’

‘Getting to opening night, however, has a much different feel this fall. Next week the Sabres will ship off to Europe to open the regular season, leaving behind an arena, nee, center full of Pegula-funded construction projects including a brand new locker room.’

‘The moves came two days after both players were waived in allowing the Sabres to get their payroll under the NHL’s $64.3 million salary cap. Buffalo was projected to be a little over $3 million over the cap, and Kotalik and Morrisonn combined to make about $5 million in the final year of their respective contracts this season.’

‘The Sabres finished up a stretch of three games in a row, and four games in five days. This was the first time Buffalo had played three straight preseason games since 2001. “It’s a tough schedule, I think it’s a good test,” said Ruff. “We had some players that didn’t have a lot left in the tank and you could tell.”‘

‘Once again, Ellis’ fate is expected to come down to the final days of camp. He’s essentially fighting Luke Adam and Cody McCormick for the last forward starting job, with a second player taking the reserve role. The third choice will start in Rochester.’

‘The Sabres would finally get on the board in the third period with Radek Martinek in the box for a high sticking double minor. Tyler Myers cashed in on the first half of the powerplay, tickling the twine at 10:38 with assists from Pominville and Gragnani. But the rally would stop there and the Sabres took their first lost of the preseason.’